P L A C E

by stefani greenwood

National Parks are reserves of natural or semi-natural land, declared or owned by a government, that are restricted from most development and are set aside for human recreation and enjoyment, as well as animal and environmental protection.

On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the bill that created Yellowstone Park, the first National Park. Now there are 58 National parks in the United States. This story retold by Nevada Barr almost made me cry: “A man came up to a national park gate, and said to the park ranger, “I’ve only got an hour to see Yosemite, If you only had an hour to see Yosemite what would you do?” The ranger said, “Well, I’d go right over there and I’d sit on that rock. And I’d cry.” I spent many a summer in Yosemite and have very fond memories of rainbows, muddy feet and whistling.

Choose your own free adventure because coming up from April 16-24 2011 is National Park week. This celebration includes free admission to all parks, special events and Earth Day Celebrations.

“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit” – Edward Abbey